A team of dedicated volunteers in Finland has been working tirelessly to protect seal pups from the harsh effects of climate change by building artificial snowdrifts along the frozen shores of Lake Saimaa. These man-made habitats provide crucial shelter for the endangered Saimaa ringed seals, allowing them to thrive in an environment where natural snowdrifts have become increasingly scarce due to warming temperatures.

Hydrobiologist Jari Ilmonen leads the team as they trek across the frozen lake to reach the islands where the seals reside. Despite the challenging conditions, these volunteers are driven by the urgent need to safeguard the seal population in the face of climate change. With temperatures dropping to -17 °C, the team constructs snowbanks using handheld snowplows to create artificial shelters that mimic the natural snowdrifts that seals historically relied on for protection.

Over the past 11 years, these human-built snowdrifts have played a vital role in the survival of the Saimaa ringed seals. As climate change disrupts the traditional snow patterns in the region, these artificial habitats have become essential for the seals to give birth and raise their young. The success of this conservation effort is evident in the rebound of the seal population, which has increased from around 100 individuals in the 1980s to approximately 400 today.

By providing a safe haven for seal pups, these artificial snowdrifts have become a beacon of hope for the Saimaa ringed seals. With the dedication of volunteers and scientists like Jari Ilmonen, these innovative conservation efforts continue to make a positive impact on the fragile ecosystem of Lake Saimaa. As the threat of climate change looms large, these human-made habitats serve as a reminder of the power of collective action in preserving endangered species for future generations.